Peter Joel Beaudin

Peter Joel Beaudin, 82, a loving husband, father, son, and brother, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, on March 6, 2025, at Heartland Rehabilitation and Care Center in Benton, Arkansas.

The son of George and Margaret Beaudin of Fairfield Connecticut (CT), Peter grew up literally from the shortest student in 8th grade to a 6’4” graduate of Roger Ludlowe High School. While in high school, Peter started building his first car – a stock car for racing at the Danbury (CT) Fair Grounds. The Vietnam War interrupted those plans. Peter enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1964 and was soon recognized for his engineering skills. He received his training at several bases including Plattsburgh, NY (too much snow) and outside Tucson, Arizona (good squirrel hunting).

Shortly before the Tet Offensive in January 1968, Peter landed in Saigon where he maintained and repaired Huey and Cobra helicopters. During his two tours in Vietnam, his repair skills were also needed at air bases in Nha Trang and Ban Me Thout. On his return to the States, Peter was stationed at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, DC, where he worked on Air Force One.

After separating from the Air Force, Peter lived in San Antonio, Texas and later settled in Arkansas. Peter -- “Mr. Pete” -- enjoyed the easy and friendly lifestyle (and lack of snow). In both locations, Mr. Pete returned to his love of cars and served in pit crews on the southern sprint racing circuit. In later years, Peter relished his job smoking ribs at Brown’s in Benton and managing parts (and new electricians) at Fleming’s in Bryant.

Most of all, Peter was happiest taking care of his family. Mr. Pete teased, laughed, told great stories, and caused a bit of chaos, too.

In addition to his wife Janie Vandergrift Beaudin, Peter is survived by his daughter Venus Anne Davis (James) of San Antonio, Texas, his daughters Kerry Hobbs (Jason) and Kristy Wilson (JW), and his younger sister Elizabeth Beaudin of Fairfield, Connecticut. Peter’s older sister Judith Beaudin Ross predeceased him in 2019. He leaves seven grandchildren -- Lucabella Davis, Olivia Motes (Adon), Jaycee Williamson (Payton), Joshua Denison (Jordan), Kally Leeman, and Tiffany Houston (Darren) -- and his six great grandchildren -- Dylan and Jensen Motes, Raylee and Christopher Williamson, Arya and Sophie Denison.

Peter’s family wishes to acknowledge and thank the professional and loving care given by the staff of the Veterans Secure Wing at Heartland. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 12, at 9:30 a.m. at Mount Harmony Cemetery in Haskell, AR. Everyone who would like to attend the service to honor Peter's life are welcome. Honorary pallbearers are Jason Hobbs, Adon Motes, Payton Williamson, Tim Crawley, Phillip Treat, and David Wright. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Rehabilitation and Care Center, 19701 I-30, Benton, Arkansas 72019.